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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Raw Sienna

Behr · BXC-57

The Analysis

Raw Sienna is a deep, earthy brown with strong red undertones. Because it has a low Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 15.42, it absorbs a significant amount of light, which will make a room feel cozy and enclosed rather than airy or expansive.

Due to its depth, this shade is best used as a bold accent wall or in a 'color-drenching' application for smaller rooms like studies or dens. It is generally too heavy to act as a neutral background for an entire house.

LRV 15

History & Origin

This color leans into a classic heritage aesthetic, reminiscent of the saturated earth tones popular in mid-century design and traditional library spaces. It avoids the 'clean' look of modern minimalism, instead favoring a tactile, established feel.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

It pairs beautifully with warm walnut woods and matte black hardware for a sophisticated look. Use it in rooms where you want a moody atmosphere, but ensure you have dedicated task lighting since the dark pigment won't help brighten the space.

The Mood

This is a grounding, stabilizing color that feels very organic and solid. Living with it daily provides a sense of warmth and security, making it excellent for creating a restful retreat rather than a high-energy space.

Colour harmonies

Complementary

Opposite on the colour wheel — bold, high-contrast pairings. Use for a feature wall or furniture you want to command attention.

Analogous

Neighbouring hues — cohesive and calm, great for layered schemes that feel collected rather than matched.

Split complementary

Near-opposites for strong contrast with a little less tension than a pure complement. A favourite of interior designers.

Triadic

Three evenly spaced hues — balanced, vibrant, and versatile. Keep one dominant and use the others sparingly.

Tetradic (square)

Four hues in a square on the wheel — rich, dynamic palettes. Best when one colour leads and the others accent.

Monochromatic

Dark, mid, and light steps on the same hue — a failsafe gradient for trim, walls, and accents without shifting colour family.

Brand Matches

Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.

  • Stormy Plum

    Valspar · V081-1

  • Walnut

    Benjamin Moore · CW-240

  • Upper Eastside

    Behr · MQ1-61

  • Brown Thrush

    Behr · 210F-7

  • Red Curry

    Behr · S170-6

  • Amaretto

    Benjamin Moore · CSP-325

Lighting

See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
  • 3500K
  • 4000K
  • 5500K